make short/quick/light work of

phrase

1
: to make it possible for (something) to be done quickly or easily
This new snow shovel makes short work of clearing off the driveway.
2
: to finish (something) or defeat (someone) quickly and easily
She made short work of her opponents.
The kids made quick work of the french fries.

Examples of make short/quick/light work of in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
However, corn gluten meal is also an organic, pre-emergent herbicide that can make quick work of troublesome crabgrass and other weeds in lawns and gardens. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Mar. 2026 This should make light work of precisely slicing through leather and fabrics, opening packages, and preparing kindling and food. New Atlas, 10 Mar. 2026 Any of these pieces of equipment in the hands of a skilled operator should be able to make quick work of an average-sized stump. Daniel Scott, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Mar. 2026 Pressure Cooker Pressure cookers and Instant Pots make quick work of cooking beans. Randi Gollin, Martha Stewart, 27 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for make short/quick/light work of

Browse Nearby Words

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Make short/quick/light work of.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/make%20short%2Fquick%2Flight%20work%20of. Accessed 21 Jul. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster